🛕 Shri Hanuman Ji Temple – Jakhu, Shimla

A Sacred Peak Where Myth and Devotion Soar

📍 Introduction

Perched at 8,054 feet on Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, the Jakhu Temple is dedicated to Shri Hanuman Ji, the beloved Vanara deity known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, his immense strength, and divine humility. This ancient temple is not only a place of worship but also a site where mythological legacy meets the serenity of the Himalayas.

🧬 Origins & Mythological Significance

According to Ramayana, the Jakhu Temple marks the exact location where Hanuman Ji rested during his flight to fetch the Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas to save Lakshmana’s life.

🌿 The Sanjeevani Episode:

As Lakshmana lay unconscious in battle, Hanuman was sent to bring the Sanjeevani Booti from the Dronagiri mountains. On his journey, Hanuman is believed to have descended on Jakhu Hill, where sages were performing penance. The hill trembled under his weight, and even today, locals claim the giant footprint of Hanuman can be seen near the temple.

⚡ Powers & Attributes of Shri Hanuman Ji

• Chiranjeevi (immortal): One of the seven immortals in Hinduism

• Bala (strength) and Budhi (wisdom)

• Anjaneya: Son of Anjana and Vayu (Wind God)

• Shape-shifter: Master of yogic powers and siddhis

• Bhakta Shiromani: The epitome of devotion (bhakti) to Lord Rama

📖 Role in the Ramayana

In Valmiki’s Ramayana, Hanuman emerges as a warrior, messenger, and bridge between Lord Rama and Sita. His most defining acts include:

• Leaping across the ocean to reach Lanka

• Burning Lanka with his tail

• Carrying the Sanjeevani-bearing mountain

• His speech at Sita's feet – filled with devotion and purpose

🪔 Symbolism & Teachings

Shri Hanuman Ji is a **symbol of:

• Devotion (Bhakti)**

• Discipline (Niyam)

• Humility despite Power

• Service without Ego (Seva)

Hanuman's Teachings:

1. Surrender to the divine (complete loyalty to Rama)

2. Control over senses and ego

3. Using power only for dharma

4. Unshakable faith in righteousness

🛐 Worship Practices at Jakhu Temple

• Hanuman Chalisa recitations are a daily ritual

• Tuesdays and Saturdays are especially sacred

• Bhandaras (community feasts) are common

• Devotees tie red threads or offer sindoor, believed to be dear to Hanuman Ji

The temple also houses a massive 108-feet statue of Shri Hanuman Ji, unveiled in 2010, visible from across Shimla — considered to ward off evil from the valley.

🛕 Other Major Temples Dedicated to Shri Hanuman Ji

• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi

• Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya

• Salasar Balaji, Rajasthan

• Mahavir Mandir, Patna

• Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple, Tamil Nadu

🌍 Regional Variations in Devotion

• In South India, he's worshipped as Anjaneya or Veera Hanuman

• In Maharashtra, he is revered as Maruti

• In North India, he's the protector of dharma and often seen in warrior posture

• In Nepal and Indonesia, Hanuman is central to local Ramayana traditions

📜 Scriptural References

📖 From the Ramayana:

“Na anrutaṃ vākyaṃ uktam me, na me viditaṃ cha anrutam.”
(I have never spoken a lie, nor do I know what lies are.) – Hanuman to Sita

📖 From the Hanuman Chalisa:

“Ashta Siddhi Nau Nidhi Ke Data, As Bar Deen Janaki Mata.”
(Giver of the 8 siddhis and 9 treasures, this boon was granted to you by Mother Sita.)

📖 From the Mahabharata:

Hanuman appears to Bhima (his brother) and advises him on humility. He also promises to sit on Arjuna's flag during the Kurukshetra war — this is why Hanuman is depicted on Lord Krishna’s chariot flag.

🧘‍♂️ Spiritual Significance

Shri Hanuman Ji is considered the protector of the weak, remover of obstacles, and guardian of truth. He’s invoked for:

• Physical strength

• Mental clarity

• Protection from black magic and negativity

• Boosting courage and self-control

🧚 Lesser-Known Legends of Hanuman Ji at Jakhu

• It’s said that after delivering the Sanjeevani herb, Hanuman Ji visited Jakhu Temple again to bless the sages.

• The monkeys (langurs) at the temple are believed to be descendants of his vanara sena, and are fed with reverence.

📈 Influence in Modern Hinduism and Culture

• Millions chant the Hanuman Chalisa daily

• Hanuman is a major figure in TV shows, comics (like Amar Chitra Katha), and cinema

• In modern yoga and fitness, Hanuman is a symbol of flexibility and strength — the “Hanumanasana” (split pose) is named after his famous leap to Lanka

🛕

Jakhu Temple isn’t just a religious site — it is a living echo of the divine tale of devotion, strength, and selfless service. Standing under the towering statue of Hanuman Ji, with the mist of Shimla wrapping you in silence, one can feel the ancient pulse of dharma still beating strong.

Shri Hanuman Mandir

Jakhu Mandir (also known as Shri Hanuman Mandir ) is a prominent Hindu temple in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god. Located at the top of Jakhu hill, the highest point in Shimla, this temple is a major spiritual site and a key tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance amidst nature.

Key Features of Jakhu Mandir- Shri Hanuman Mandir:

1. Location:

   • The temple is situated on Jakhu hill, which stands at an elevation of 2,455 meters (8,000 feet). The hill offers panoramic views of Shimla, the Shivalik mountain range, and the surrounding valleys.

2. Religious Significance:

   • Jakhu Mandir is believed to have a deep connection with the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to legend, Lord Hanuman stopped at Jakhu hill while on his journey to find the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lord Lakshman. The spot where the temple stands is said to be where Hanuman rested during his search, making it a highly revered place for devotees.

3. 108-Foot Hanuman Statue:

   • One of the most striking features of Jakhu Mandir is the 108-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman, which towers over the temple. It was installed in 2010 and is one of the tallest statues of Hanuman in the world. The statue is visible from various parts of Shimla and adds to the temple's prominence.

4. Monkeys at the Temple:

   • The temple is famous for the large population of monkeys that roam around its premises. These monkeys are considered sacred, as they are associated with Lord Hanuman, but visitors are advised to be cautious, as the monkeys can be mischievous and might snatch personal items like food, sunglasses, or bags.

5. Trekking and Accessibility:

   • The temple can be reached by hiking a steep 2.5 km trail from The Ridge in Shimla. For those who prefer not to hike, there are taxis available, or visitors can take the Jakhu Ropeway, which offers a scenic cable car ride from the base to the top of Jakhu hill.

6. Spiritual Atmosphere:

   • The temple is a serene place for worship and meditation, surrounded by lush deodar and oak forests. Many devotees visit to seek blessings from Lord Hanuman, especially during Hanuman Jayanti and Dussehra, when the temple sees large crowds and special celebrations.

7. Timings:

   • Opening Time: 7:00 AM

   • Closing Time: 8:00 PM
     The temple is open every day, including weekends and holidays.

Tips for Visitors: Monkeys at the Temple

• Caution with Monkeys: Visitors should keep their belongings secure, especially food, sunglasses, and bags, to avoid attracting the monkeys.

• Footwear: The trek to the temple can be steep, so comfortable shoes are recommended if you're hiking.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers a more peaceful experience and pleasant weather for trekking.

Jakhu Mandir is not only a site of religious significance but also offers a blend of spiritual tranquility and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those traveling to Shimla.